25 Best Beaches in Ottawa From a Local
Ottawa is home to some of the best beaches in Canada – which comes as a surprise to most. It surprised me when I first moved here!
You may not expect your summer visit to the capital of Canada to be a great place for a Florida-esque beach vacay, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
The Ottawa River offers a number of beautiful sandy beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the views.
To help you plan the best spots for your summer reading list, I’ve gathered the 15 best beaches in Ottawa and a bonus of the 10 best beaches near Ottawa that you can visit on a day trip!
As an Ottawa local, you’ll probably spot me at these beaches with a true crime book in hand and a flavoured sparkling water (or even my dog when allowed!).
1. Petrie Island Beach
This is my personal favourite beach in Ottawa and definitely one of the best.
Petrie Island has 3 different beaches which are all great for swimming, but East Beach is the best in my opinion.
It’s a lot less crowded than the other two beaches (West Beach and Centennial Beach) and I find the water to be just the right temperature.
There are also a ton of trees that provide natural shade and make the whole experience more enjoyable.
Petrie Island is located in the east end of Ottawa in Orleans, and you can get there by taking Trim Road off of Highway 174.
Bring the whole family or a group of friends and enjoy a day at one of the best beaches in Ottawa!
With plentiful paddle board, kayak, and canoe rentals, Petrie Island is a fantastic spot to enjoy the water.
Don’t forget to pack a lunch to enjoy in one of the picnic areas or on the beach.
Where: 272 Trim Road, Orleans
Amenities: Picnic tables, kayak and SUP rentals, beach volleyball,
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
2. Mooney’s Bay Beach
If you have kids, you definitely want to check out Mooney’s bay.
Those looking for family-friendly places to swim in Ottawa should give this beach a go.
Your kids will definitely like the Canada-themed playground at Mooney’s Bay.
Mooney’s Bay Beach is a very popular summer destination for beach lovers and this means it is often busy with people.
It is also one of the beaches that hosts many of Ottawa’s festivals and events such as the Ottawa Dragon Boat Race Festival, H.O.P.E. Volleyball SummerFest and plenty of other fun events.
Where: 2926 Riverside Drive
Amenities: BBQ pits, beach volleyball, playground for kids,
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid, but some free street parking
3. Westboro Beach
If you’re looking for a beach where you can go for a swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a meal or drink, Westboro Beach is the place for you.
The beach is located on the west shore of the Ottawa River in the neighbourhood of Westboro.
The Westbrook Beach Yacht Club café offers tasty accommodations and there’s often live music playing.
The beach is also connected to a main bike pathway called the Sir John A MacDonald Parkway, which makes it perfect for a day of exploring on two wheels.
Westboro Beach is open year-round and is definitely one of the best beaches in Ottawa.
Where: 745 Ottawa River Parkway
Amenities: Beach cafe, rent paddle boards, bike friendly
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Free
4. Brittania Beach
This is another great beach located on the west side of Ottawa.
Brittania Beach is a bit more low-key than Westboro Beach and doesn’t have any restaurants or cafes.
It’s a great spot to go for a swim, relax on the sand, and enjoy the views of the river.
The beach is located in the Britannia neighbourhood and is easily accessible by public transit.
I love visiting Brittania Beach for the Beachconers, an ice cream shop.
The Beachconers has amazing ice cream flavours like London Fog, mango banana, and Brittania brownie.
If you’re looking for a delicious treat after a day at the beach, make sure to check out The Beachconers!
Where: 2805 Carling Avenue
Amenities: BBQ pits, picnic tables, water fountains, rent volleyball nets, outdoor showers
Dog Friendly?: Yes, in the dog area
Parking: Free
5. Leamy Lake Beach
Leamy Lake Beach is a great spot for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without being too far from the city.
The beach is located in Hill, just a short drive from downtown Ottawa.
There are many things to do at Leamy Lake Beach, including swimming, picnicking, fishing, and kayaking.
The beach also has a lifeguard on duty, making it a great place to take the kids.
If, like me, you’re not a fan of lying on sand and getting it up in all your personal places, there are grassy areas with more shade just beyond the beach that are perfect for summer beach reads!
Where: Fournier Blvd, Gatineau
Amenities: Picnic tables, BBQ pits, playground, volleyball courts, concession stand
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
6. Constance Bay Beach
This beach is located in the west end of Ottawa, in the neighbourhood of Constance Bay, 20 mins west of Kanata.
Constance Bay Beach is one of the only horse-friendly beaches in Ottawa so it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a ride on the beach.
The beach is also great for sailing, boating, and fishing.
If you’re looking for a more active beach day, you can also go paddle boarding or kayaking.
Just be careful of the mussels in the water- they can really hurt your toes!
Constance Bay Beach is a small but cute beach with a shop that makes you feel like you’re in Mexico.
The best part? Parking is free!
I love this beach, as the water is crystal clear and warm. It’s kind of like Georgian Bay, for my fellow Ontarians. You can walk out for a kilometre and still have the water below your waist!
My dog loves splashing in the water with me. But with the lack of shade and outdoor showers, we usually end up quite sandy and sweaty, so bring lots of towels for the drive home!
Where: Lane St., Ottawa
Amenities: Beach cafe
Dog Friendly?: Yes
Parking: Free
7. Meech Lake/ O’Brien Beach
Meech Lake is a large lake located in Gatineau Park, about 15 minutes drive from downtown Ottawa.
This beach is one of the most popular in the area and gets crowded on hot summer days.
The sand is white and the water is crystal clear, making it a perfect spot for swimming.
There are also lifeguards on duty, making it a great place to take the kids.
Meech Lake is also a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and kayaking.
If you’re looking for a more active beach day, you can also go paddle boarding or canoeing.
Where: Chelsea, Quebec
Amenities: Lifeguards
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
8. Lac Philippe Beach
Lac Philippe is a beautiful lake located in Gatineau Park, about 45 minutes drive from downtown Ottawa.
This beach is one of the most popular in the area and gets crowded on hot summer days.
The sand is white and the water is crystal clear, making it a perfect spot for swimming.
There are also lifeguards on duty, making it a great place to take the kids.
Lac Philippe is also a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and kayaking.
If you’re looking for a more active beach day, you can also go paddle boarding or canoeing.
Where: Gatineau Park, Quebec
Amenities: Lifeguards
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
9. Burnstown Beach
Burnstown Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located on the Madawaska River.
The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
The Paddle Shack, located next to the boat launch, rents kayaks and paddle boards so you can explore the river.
The beach also has a concession stand and published bathroom, making it a great spot for a day trip.
Where: 1537 Calabogie Road
Amenities: Kayak and paddle board rentals, concession stand, published bathroom
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
10. The Pond
The Pond doesn’t have the most exciting name, but this secret swimming hole is one of the best places to take a dip in Ottawa.
The Pond is located in an industrial area near the airport and is only open during the summer months.
This spot is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds at the more popular beaches.
The water is clean and clear, making it perfect for swimming.
There are also no lifeguards on duty, so be sure to take precautions if you’re swimming with children.
The Pond is a great spot for a summer swim and is definitely worth checking out! But note, you can only swim from 7am to 2pm!
Where: Pond St., Rockliffe Park
Amenities: None
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Free
11. Morrison’s Quarry
Did you know there’s a blue oasis near Ottawa? Morrison’s Quarry is an under rated gem!
Most people think to go to the Blue Grotto in Tobermory, about 10 hours from Ottawa, in search of blue waters. Or to book a flight to Mexico.
But you don’t have to!
This quarry is located about 20 minutes outside of downtown Ottawa and is a popular spot for swimming and scuba diving.
The water is a beautiful turquoise colour and is crystal clear.
There are also picnic tables, BBQ pits, and a sandy beach area.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try the waterslide!
It’s also home to the Great Canadian Bungee!
Cost: $10 per person
Where: 1780 Quebec Rte 105, Chelsea
Amenities: BBQ pits, waterslide, picnic tables
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Included in cost
12. Lac du Poisson Blanc
Lac du Poisson Blanc is a secluded beach located in Poisson Blanc Regional Park.
This beach is the perfect spot for those who want to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.
The sand is white and the water is crystal clear, making it a perfect spot for swimming.
There are also plenty of campsites available if you want to make a weekend of it.
Where: Poisson Blanc Regional Park, Quebec
Amenities: None
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Varies
13. La Peche Lake Beach
La Peche Lake is Gatineau Park’s largest lake and it is stunning.
The lake is about an hour’s drive from Ottawa. While at the lake you can rent a canoe or simply chill by the beachside.
Be sure to bring your sunscreen and beach umbrella because this beach can get pretty hot.
In the summer, the beach can get crowded. Just move beyond the areas closest to the parking lots and you’ll find some secluded places. That’s the beauty of such a large beach!
Where: Pontiac, Quebec
Amenities: Canoe rentals
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
14. Parc du Lac-Beauchamp
Parc du Lac-Beauchamp is a smaller beach in Gatineau.
This beach is more popular for picnics and family gatherings due to the multiple BBQ pits, picnic tables, and playgrounds available.
It is perfect for those who want to enjoy a more relaxed beach day.
The sand is more well-kept and there are fewer rocks than at some of the other beaches in the area.
This makes it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
And in July, the beach hosts an epic sandcastle festival so be sure to check it out!
Where: 741 Boulevard Maloney E, Gatineau
Amenities: BBQ pits, picnic tables, playgrounds
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
15. Fitzroy Provincial Park Beach
Fitzroy Provincial Park is a hidden gem located just outside of Ottawa.
This park is perfect for those who want to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.
The main beach is located in the day-use area and has washrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, stand-up barbecues, a volleyball court and canoe/kayak rentals.
The camper’s beach is located in the Two Rivers Campground and is ideal for families with small children.
There are also plenty of hiking and canoeing trails if you want to explore the park further.
So if you’re looking for a secluded spot to enjoy a summer swim, Fitzroy Provincial Park is definitely worth checking out!
Fee: $19/day or paid camping
Where: Fitzroy Provincial Park, Ontario
Amenities: Washrooms, picnic tables, BBQ pits, canoe/kayak rentals
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Free once you’ve paid to hike or camp
Best Beaches Near Ottawa
16. Petawawa Point Beach
I discovered this beach while taking my dog to training in Petawawa and it quickly became a Wednesday favourite!
This beach is located at the junction of the Ottawa and Petawawa rivers.
The sand is white and the water is crystal clear.
There are also plenty of canoe and kayak rentals available if you want to explore the river.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try stand-up paddleboarding!
Where: 1 Island View Dr, Petawawa
Amenities: Boat launch, canoe and kayak rentals, SUP rentals
Dog Friendly?: Yes
Parking: Free
17. Barnet Park Beach
After hiking the Eagle’s Nest Lookout in Calabogie, you’ll want to cool off.
Head to Barnet Park Beach and take a dip in the refreshing water.
This beach is located on Calabogie Lake and offers washrooms, picnic tables, a play structure, a snack bar, and a boat launch.
And if you’re looking for more adventure, you can even rent a canoe or kayak from Calabogie Peaks Resort.
Where: 5179 Calabogie Road
Amenities: Kayak and canoe rentals, washrooms, picnic tables, play structure, snack bar, boat launch
Dog Friendly?: Yes
Parking: Free
18. Driftwood Provincial Park Beach
Driftwood Provincial Park is a beautiful spot for camping, canoeing, and of course – swimming!
The main beach is located in the day-use area and offers washrooms and picnic tables.
The camper’s beach is located in the campground and is great for families with small children.
And if you want to explore the park further, there are plenty of hiking and canoeing trails.
So if you’re looking for a secluded spot to enjoy a summer swim, Driftwood Provincial Park is definitely worth checking out!
Where: Driftwood Provincial Park, Ontario
Amenities: Washrooms, showers, a boat launch and a park store
Dog Friendly?: Yes
Parking: Paid
19. Murphy’s Point Provincial Park Beach
Located in Perth, this beach is perfect for a day trip from Ottawa.
Perth is one of my favourite small towns to visit year-round. But in the summer, getting to relax on the beach always makes it a perfect getaway!
You’ll relax along the historic Rideau Waterway.
It’s a great spot for kayaking!
Where: Murphys Point Provincial Park
Amenities: Kayak rentals, washrooms
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
20. Morrisburg Beach
Located in South Dundas, this large sandy beach is a great spot to go swimming.
The lifeguards even offer swimming lessons!
Where: 85 Canada Way, ON
Amenities: Lifeguards
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
21. Almonte Beach
This quaint beach is a great short drive from Ottawa. The cool sand and calm waters are great for a quick dip after you pop into Almonte for a Hummingbird Chocolate Factory ice cream!
Where: 195 Water Street, Almonte
Amenities: Washrooms, boat launch
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
22. Pakenham Beach
Also located in Almonte, Pakenham Beach is less popular than the Almonte Beach. It has some more brush and reeds that can dissuade tourists from swimming.
But I love this spot for a forest-y beach day to relax and read my book.
Where: 106 Margaret Street
Amenities: Washrooms
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
23. Iroquois Beach
This beach is located in the Village of Iroquois and offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
The Iroquois Locks are also nearby if you want to explore more of the river.
The Red Cross offers swimming lessons at the beach during the summer months.
Where: 42 Adair Dr.
Amenities: Change rooms and washrooms
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
24. Foy’s Beach
Looking for a hidden gem? You need to stop by Foy’s Beach nearby the better known Bonnechere Provincial Park.
It’s located on Round Lake. Round Lake owes its fine sand to the glacial meltwater of the last ice age.
This beach is a great spot to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Where: Foy’s Provincial Park
Amenities: Washrooms
Dog Friendly?: No
Parking: Paid
25. Robert Simpson Park
Robert Simpson Park is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
The park offers a sandy beach, a playground for kids, and a food stand.
Robert Simpson Park is located 45 minutes from Arnprior and overlooks the meeting of the Madawaska and Ottawa rivers.
Where: 400 John St. N
Amenities: Picnic tables, playground, bathrooms, food stalls
Dog Friendly?: Yes
Parking: Paid
What to Bring to the Beach
Ottawa may not be the Caribbean, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a day (or more!) at the beach!
Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, water, snacks, and lunch.
If you’re planning on swimming, make sure to pack your swimsuit, towel, and goggles.
And if you have little ones, don’t forget the sand toys!
Have fun and enjoy the sun!
Wrap Up: Best Beaches in Ottawa
Ottawa is home to some amazing beaches, perfect for a day (or more) of swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or one that’s close to amenities, Ottawa has something for everyone.
So pack your sunscreen, water, snacks, and swimsuit and get ready to enjoy the summer weather at one of these beautiful beaches!
Looking for more summer fun? Find the best ice cream spots here.
FAQs:
Does Ottawa have a beach?
Yes! There are many beaches located throughout Ottawa. My favourites are Petrie Island Beaches, Britannia Beach, and Constance Bay!
Is the water at Ottawa beaches clean?
Yes, the water at Ottawa beaches is clean and safe to swim in. There are regular water reports to ensure the safety of the water.
What is the best beach in Ottawa?
There is no definitive answer to this question as everyone’s preferences are different. However, some of the most popular beaches in Ottawa include Britannia Beach, Petrie Island Beaches, and Constance Bay.
Where can I swim near Ottawa?
There are many great swimming spots near Ottawa. Some of my favourites include Britannia Beach, Petrie Island Beaches, and Constance Bay. You can also swim at a myriad of beaches in Gatineau Park, which is perfect to cool off after a long hike.
What are the nicest beaches in Ottawa?
Some of the nicest beaches in Ottawa include Britannia Beach, Petrie Island Beaches, and Mooney’s Bay. These beaches offer stunning views, clean water, and plenty of amenities.
Can you swim at Ottawa beaches?
Yes, you can swim at all of the beaches in Ottawa. The water is clean and safe to swim in. There are also regular water quality reports to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the water.
Is there a beach in Ottawa?
Yes! There are many beaches located throughout Ottawa. My favourites are Petrie Island Beaches, Britannia Beach, and Constance Bay!
What is the water temperature in Ottawa?
The water temperature in Ottawa varies depending on the time of year and the location. In general, the water is warmest in August and coolest in April. I recommend swimming in July and August when the water is at its warmest but is still cooler than the humid air in Ottawa.
Read More Fun Things to Do in Ottawa this Summer
- 13 Best Gatineau Park Hiking Trails for Summer
- 60 Epic Things to Do in Ottawa in Summer (Local’s Guide)
- 25 Best Beaches in Ottawa From a Local!
- 5 Best Drive-in Theatres Ottawa (A Local’s Guide)
- Ottawa Zipline Experience: Why You Need to Zipline Between Provinces!
- 6 Best Ottawa Wine Tours & Tastings
- 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
- A Local’s Guide To Pink Lake in Gatineau Park
- Complete Guide to Parc Omega Wildlife Park from Ottawa
- 4 Best Places for Go Karting in Ottawa (Local’s Guide)
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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?
100% YES! — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.
💧Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?
Yes – ish — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle. (Read more)
🚙💨 Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Yes — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.
📲 Do I need to know French in Ottawa?
Nope! — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. (Read more)
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?
For Ottawa hotels, Booking is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?
For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend Skyscanner. You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.
🎫 Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?
Likely Not — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.
📍 Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec. It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto. You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.
